The archaeological site of Rupac is located in the District of Atavillo Bajo, in the Province of Huaral, at 3500 m.a.s.l. and 145 km north of the city of Lima.

How to get to Rupac?

The route is covered in two stages. The first is by car or bus, and the second is on foot. Don’t worry, we’ll give you all the information you need and some tips on trekking if you are not used to it.

Travelling by private car

• We take the North Pan American Highway to the city of Huaral
• We take Avenida Los Naturales, which leads towards the mountains
• After an hour on the road, we reach a toll booth
• Before the “Ing. Oscar Vargas Avendaño” bridge, there is a turnoff that leads to the La Florida – Pampas tourist area
• From here, the road becomes difficult, very steep and only one-lane wide. Make sure you fill up your fuel tank before leaving Huaral, because you’ll use more fuel than you might expect during the steep climb
• After an hour and a half, we arrive at La Florida, where we need to pay the entry fee to Rupac (PEN 10 or USD 2.50)

The route by public transport

• We take the bus at the Bus Terminal of “Plaza Norte” Mall that will take us to the city of Huaral
• We then take a colectivo (shared taxi service) to Las Pampas, for which the average fare tends to be PEN 25 (USD 6) per person
• After a two-hour journey, we arrive at La Florida, where we pay the entry fee to Rupac (PEN 10 or USD 2.50)

Arrival at Las Pampas

• Ten minutes after paying the entrance fee, whether we are in a car or bus, we arrive at the “Ghost Town” of Las Pampas.

Once in Las Pampas, we can find restaurants and shops where we can stock up on supplies before beginning the trek. The origin of the name of “Ghost Town” comes from the fact that, a long time ago, the people who lived there decided to move elsewhere, leaving the houses intact.

Nowadays, the town looks more like a tourist attraction. The people who live in La Florida climb up to the town and set up their food and tourism businesses there, since the route to Rupac goes through Las Pampas and provides a win-win situation for the townspeople and visitors alike.

Now, without further ado, we come to the walk up to Rupac. You may choose to go on your own or hire a guide, as well as hire donkeys to carry your packs to the city of fire.

Trek and camping at Rupac

The trek will be strenuous, and we always recommend that you make sure you are in good health. It’s a six-kilometer trail, which can take up to three hours, depending on your physical condition, but everything has its rewards.

The route offers extraordinary landscapes and a waterfall. On arrival at Rupac, your reward will be even greater with a beautiful sunset. Remember to rest every so often on the route to keep up the pace.

Waste no time to set up your tent in the camping area, since a surprise rain shower may complicate things.

Rupac lies above the cloud line

The whispy blanket of clouds is, possibly, one of the reasons people visit the archaeological complex at Rupac. The site rises above the cloud line, giving us the sensation of being on top of the sky.

The clouds tend to form more frequently in January and February. Nevertheless, you can visit the area any time of year and equally enjoy the other attractions.

The Rupac Archaeological Complex

The Archaeological Complex at Rupac was built by the Atavillos, one of the most important pre-Inca civilizations in the Province of Lima. It was built as a defense system, above the mountain peaks that rise over 3,500 to 3,800 m.a.s.l.

To this day, so many centuries after the site was built, the buildings remain intact, which is why it has earned the title of “Lima’s Machu Picchu.” The site features kullpis (houses) and chullpas (funeral towers) in the settlement areas. You will also easily identify storage spaces, fireplaces, courtyards and other areas well preserved after so many years.\

If you are wondering why it is called the “city of fire”, the story is that the buildings were painted a bright red that, at sunset, made the citadel appear to be on fire. There are still traces of the paint that would prove the origin of the name.

Lastly, take note of these tips to help you on your journey: leave Lima early to get to Huaral, take warm clothing and mountaineering tents and sleeping bags, have tablets for altitude sickness or soroche, take an umbrella, and enough water for the full route.

And if you are in Cusco, and you like adventure and the possibility of visiting the real Machu Picchu, go for it and travel aboard our PeruRail Expedition train. Book your tickets here!”

The route to Machu Picchu has many landscapes that transform the journey in a show worth admiring. That’s why the PeruRail Vistadome train, which has panoramic windows in every wagon, is the best option for those people who love to be in touch with nature from the moment they first arrive.

From Poroy Station, located near Cusco city, or Urubamba and Ollantaytambo Stations, both located in the Sacred Valley; begin an adventure full of magic to Machu Picchu on board the PeruRail Vistadome. Sit comfortably and feel the connection with nature. Beautiful landscapes will make the trip an unforgettable experience.

From a full dry pampas panorama, typical peruvian andes, to an intense green view of the jungle. Diverse sensations, a mixture of relaxation and wonder, will take you to a state of tranquility while the trip goes deep into the Inca territory.

While you enjoy a light snack prepared with unique local andean ingredients accompanied by traditional background music, the Vilcanota River, also called by the Incas “Wilkanayu” that means “Sacred driver’’, accompanies the train during much of the tour.

Finally, the adventure to Machu Picchu turns unforgettable when the magic takes in the PeruRail Vistadome train on the outbound journey. Dancers of Saqra, traditional dance of Puaucartambo, Cusco, get on the wagons to spread the typical euphoria of the Andean customs with their joy and dancing steps.

The journey continues with an elegant Fashion show that display on board an exclusive collection of Baby Alpaca, which have been worked in a collaborative way with the andean communities, to promulgate their art and textiles. Then you can buy them at the end of the presentation.

So, if you enjoy nature, landscapes and new experiences, your best alternative to get around the sacred Inca city, Machu Picchu, is on board of the magic experience found in PeruRail’s PeruRail Vistadome train.

There is something that is always in the plan of every traveler who embarks on the journey to Cusco, it is more noticeable when they are aboard our trains, the feeling of magical moment begins to invade their bodies. All this happens because the unforgettable experience of this great trip deserves a souvenir just as unforgettable; a great picture at Machu Picchu. Here are ten tips that will make help you to get an amazing picture.

First, it is important to schedule a nice day to visit the Inca citadel. The dry weather season, between May and October, guarantees a blue sky; while during the rainy season you can appreciate the greenest landscape of the year and have a larger clear area to take any type of pictures. The second important point is to keep your camera and/or phone set, Machu Picchu is a natural sanctuary and it is necessary to be aware at all time to capture the moment where flora and fauna perfectly combine.

The third tip you should keep in mind is that from an aerial view the majesty will be appreciated better; therefore, we suggest to go up the Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu to get a better angle to capture the citadel. Do not forget the tickets to go up this mountain are limited, so you should purchase them anticipatedly. If you prefer to take a classic postal picture of this World Wonder it is not necessary to put that much effort, you can do this just walking a flat path to arrive to the “Casa del Guardian”. For the record, did you know that when you turn the trademark Machu Picchu picture to the side, you can see the side face of a person?” Here is an example:

Our fourth recommendation is that at the time of taking your picture, you let your creativity flow. Many pictures have been taken, it is up to you to make yours unique. You may want to try posing in a new way or sharing the spot with friends, family or making a fun composition with determined items. There is always a way to get an original shot!

Always remember, you should be patient and wait for the right time. You should be prepared and have everything ready for the perfect picture; nevertheless, is necessary to keep calm. Machu Picchu is always packed with visitors who will be walking, learning, admiring, exploring and also trying to take that special picture like you.

The sixth tip is that despite you want to take astonishing pictures of the citadel and pose in every spot you can, is always important to wear comfortable clothing in order to explore each space and, in that way, take home not just a good picture but also a good memory of your experience.

As our eighth tip, you must know that it might be considerable to carry a selfie stick to document every second of your trip and keep the memory of being all together in this experience.

Even though it might be enough to take pictures with a smartphone, if you have a professional camera do not hesitate in taking it with you. Machu Picchu is totally worth to take a picture with the best possible definition.

Last but not least, our tenth advice is that you stay patient, after having read these recommendations you are now one step closer to take the best picture in one of the best Wonders of the World.

All visitors must show their ticket when entering the Inca citadel. This ticket indicates our entry time slot and the route to which we will have access. Remember that you need to buy your ticket beforehand on the website of the National Institute of Culture (INC) https://www.machupicchu.gob.pe/ or at the agency’s offices at Calle Maruri 340 and/or Garcilaso S/N in the city of Cusco.

Machu Picchu Ticket Types

There are three types of tickets. Depending on your ticket type, you will have access to one of four famous routes:

• The “Llaqta de Machu Picchu” ticket allows you to choose any one of the four routes. 
• The ticket that includes the mountains of Huchuy Picchu and Huayna Picchu only allows you to take Route 4.
• The ticket that includes Machu Picchu mountain only allows you to take Route 3.

Confusing? Maybe, but things will become clearer once we get into the details of the routes themselves. 

Machu Picchu Entrances and Routes

There are four routes available at Machu Picchu: four different options for visiting the citadel, each offering a different perspective. To help you make your choice, let’s take a look at the details for each one of them. 

Llaqta Machu Picchu Ticket (Citadel)

Also known as the Machu Picchu Solo (“Just Machu Picchu”) ticket, this is the first ticket option mentioned above. While you can choose to take any route with this ticket, it is the only one that allows you to take Routes 1 or 2. This option is recommended for first-time visitors to Machu Picchu.

• Route 1: This route will take you through the upper and lower parts of the archaeological site. You will have a chance to view constructions such as the dry moat, the Temple of the Sun Lookout, the granite blockfield, the reflecting pools, Pisonay Square, and the archaeological reserve. This route takes about two hours. Take a look here: https://bit.ly/3AKLbtV
• Route 2: This is like an extended version of the previous route, but with lots more to see. In addition to the sites mentioned in Route 1, you will see the Temple Square, the Sacred Stone, the Twelve Niches, the Eastern Qolcas, the Intiwatana Pyramid (from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m.), and the Temple of the Condor (from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.). You will also be able to take the optional Inca Bridge path. Take a look here:  https://bit.ly/3ThehYQ

On both routes, you will have the option to hike up to the Sun Gate (Intipunku), but you may want to confirm this beforehand with your travel agency. Of course, both of these routes will give you a chance to take photos from the famous angle often seen in pictures of Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu with Mountain Ticket 

This ticket is recommended for people who like to walk, because you’ll be entering Machu Picchu twice. 

• Route 3: On the first leg, you will climb up the mountain of Machu Picchu, which takes about two hours. There, you’ll have a chance to take photos. On the way down, you’ll be able to take the classic photo you’ve probably seen everywhere. To finish off the route, you will have to leave and then re-enter below. The attractions on this route include the Qolcas, the agricultural area, the canal, the dry moat, the Temple of the Sun Complex, the House of the Inka Complex, the water fountains, the reflecting pools, Pisonay Square, and the archaeological reserve. Take a look here: https://bit.ly/3QOtIpY

Machu Picchu – Huayna Picchu Ticket

This ticket, designed for the most adventurous visitors, is the one that sells out fastest. You will take Route 4, which consists of a hike to the top of the mountain of Huayna Picchu.

• Route 4: You will begin the route in the lower part of the complex, known as the “urban sector.” There, you’ll have a chance to visit the attractions from Route 3, as well as the Eastern Qolcas, the Sacred Stone, the Twelve Niches, and the Temple of the Condor (from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.). Take a look here: https://bit.ly/3pKVpnL

By the way, PeruRail offers a popular service for those in search of adventure: the PeruRail Expedition train, which provides the comfort and experience you’re looking for at an affordable price. Get your tickets here!

Machu Picchu – Huchuy Picchu Ticket

On this route, you’ll start at the lower part of the site before climbing up to the top of Huchuy Picchu, located next to Huayna Picchu. This is a new route that was just recently opened by the Peruvian Ministry of Culture, designed for those who love to hike. 

Like the Huayna Pichu ticket, the Huchuy Picchu ticket includes the same route and checkpoint. The trip takes about two and a half hours. Remember that neither of these routes includes the famous angle from which the classic photo of the citadel can be taken, although you’ll be able to get shots of the two mountains. 

Machu Picchu Entry Times

The Machu Picchu entry time slots are set by the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism, in coordination with the National Service for State-Protected Natural Areas and the Ministry of Culture, to ensure more orderly visits and help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Keep in mind that in PeruRail we have the best and variety of schedules of trains to Machu Picchu. Travel aboard the PeruRail Vistadome or PeruRail Expedition trains to arrive at the inca citadel and take advantage of a fullday, a sunset or spend the night in Machu Picchu Town. Get your tickets right here!

“Just Machu Picchu” Time Slots

• Slot 1: Entry starting at 6 to 7 a.m.
• Slot 2: Entry starting at 7 to 8 a.m.
• Slot 3: Entry starting at 8 to 9 a.m.
• Slot 4: Entry starting at 9 to 10 a.m.
• Slot 5: Entry starting at 10 to 11 a.m.
• Slot 6: Entry starting at 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Slot 7: Entry starting at 12 to 1 p.m.
• Slot 8: Entry starting at 1 to 2 p.m.
• Slot 9: Entry starting at 2 to 3 p.m.

“Machu Picchu with Mountain” Time Slots

• Slot 1: Entry to Machu Picchu from 6 to 7 a.m. Then to the mountain from 7 to 8 a.m.
• Slot 2: Entry to Machu Picchu from 7 to 8 a.m. Then to the mountain from 8 to 9 a.m.

“Machu Picchu – Huchuy Picchu” Time Slots

• Slot 1: Entry to Machu Picchu from 6 to 7 a.m. Then to Huchuy Picchu from 7 to 8 a.m.
• Slot 2: Entry to Machu Picchu from 7 to 8 a.m. Then to Huchuy Picchu from 8 to 9 a.m.
• Slot 3: Entry to Machu Picchu from 8 to 9 a.m. Then to Huchuy Picchu from 9 to 10 a.m.
• Slot 4: Entry to Machu Picchu from 9 to 10 a.m. Then to Huchuy Picchu from 10 to 11 a.m.
• Slot 5: Entry to Machu Picchu from 10 to 11 a.m. Then to Huchuy Picchu from 11 to 12 p.m.
• Slot 6: Entry to Machu Picchu from 11 to 12 p.m. Then to Huchuy Picchu from 12 to 1 p.m.
• Slot 7: Entry to Machu Picchu from 12 to 1 p.m. Then to Huchuy Picchu from 1 to 2 p.m.
• Slot 8: Entry to Machu Picchu from 1 to 2 p.m. Then to Huchuy Picchu from 2 to 3 p.m.

“Machu Picchu – Huayna Picchu” Time Slots

• Slot 1: Entry to Machu Picchu from 6 to 7 a.m. Then to Huayna Picchu from 7 to 8 a.m.
• Slot 2: Entry to Machu Picchu from 7 to 8 a.m. Then to Huayna Picchu from 8 to 9 a.m.
• Slot 3: Entry to Machu Picchu from 8 to 9 a.m. Then to Huayna Picchu from 9 to 10 a.m.
• Slot 4: Entry to Machu Picchu from 9 to 10 a.m. Then to Huayna Picchu from 10 to 11 a.m.

As you can see, it’s important to pay attention to which sites and activities are included in each route. Remember to check your ticket carefully. We recommend visiting with a tour guide if this is your first time at the citadel. 

Now you know everything you need to about your ticket to Machu Picchu. How about a recommendation for your train trip? PeruRail offers unbeatable immersive experiences on its PeruRail Vistadome train, which includes traditional local music and dances onboard and a gorgeous panoramic view. Get your tickets right here!

If you want to travel by train, discover with us everything you must know about Machu Picchu Station the last stop to the impressive Huayna Picchu.

The journey to the Huayna Picchu is one of the most complicated, riskiest and probably the most difficult to undertake. It requires enough physical strength, determination, and vigour to reach the top. The journey will take about 1 hour. The road starts in the Sacred Rock (Roca Sagrada), where you will find dense vegetation, a steep and narrow path, and granite stairs with uneven steps, so you must be very careful where you step.

According to the story, Huayna Picchu was the monitoring centre of the citadel of Machu Picchu since this archaeological complex was threatened by other cultures from the surroundings for its lands. With the construction of this place, the Incas were alert for any eventuality or attack.

At the peak of this mountain, you can see a lot of buildings used for crops near the abyss. From this point, you may also watch Machu Picchu in its fullest; the wonderful Urubamba River with impressive shades of green, 400 meters down; and, to the north, you will enjoy the view of the Temple of the Moon.

Huayna Picchu tickets and schedules:

The capacity to visit Huayna Picchu is limited, as only a maximum of 200 people per day can enter, divided into four groups of 50. Entrance tickets to the young mountain must be purchased in advance on the INC website. Keep in mind that, when acquiring them, you also acquire the entrance to the citadel of Machu Picchu in Circuit 4 + Waynapicchu. These are the available times:

• Group 1:
  • The first group enters Machu Picchu from 7 a.m.
  • The entrance to the Huayna Picchu mountain is between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m.
• Group 2:
  • The second group enters Machu Picchu starting at 8 a.m.
  • The entrance to the Huayna Picchu mountain is between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m.
• Group number 3:
  • The third group enters Machu Picchu from 9 a.m.
  • The entrance to Huayna Picchu is between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m.
• Group 4:
  • The fourth group enters Machu Picchu from 10 a.m.
  • The entrance to the Huayna Picchu mountain is between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m.

Huayna Picchu Attractions:

The Temple of the Moon: It is located at 2667 m.a.s.l. within the Sanctuary of Machu Picchu; it was considered a ceremonial temple and was part of Huayna Picchu. It is built inside a cave with fine finishes with trapezoidal niches in an Inca style. Upon the arrival of Hiram Bingham, it was named the Temple of the Moon although it is unknown its original name during the Tahuantinsuyo era. In the centre of the cave, there is a throne carved out of rock, and it is also believed that it was used to hold mummies.

It is recommended to take into account that the items to take for visiting Huayna Picchu are the same for visiting the Inca Citadel. This link will give you more details about the 10 things you must take to Machu Picchu.

If you love adventure, you cannot miss Huayna Picchu, the new mountain located in front of Machu Picchu, which many do not dare to visit. Enjoy this wonderful height in the Andes and complement your journey to this place aboard the PeruRail Expedition train! Buy your tickets now!

There are many ways to reach this World Heritage Site, from taking the legendary Inca route by trekking to traveling on a deluxe train, which will take you to Machu Picchu with all comforts. All will depend on the budget and the kind of adventure you are seeking for. This time, we will explain the way to get to the Inca Citadel by train from Poroy Station (Cusco) in ten steps.

• Step #1: Train tickets

To make the most out of the visit to Machu Picchu, The first step we recommend is to buy the train tickets in advance and thus be able to avoid any setback. You will find various train stations to the citadel of Machu Picchu in this website. Poroy Station is one of closest stations to the city of Cusco and the most convenient to start a journey as it is just about 20 minutes away from the city. Furthermore, it offers many departure schedules for its various train services.

• Step #2: Jorge Chavez Airport

There are two ways to get to Cusco if in Lima; you can go by land or air. If you choose to go by plane, you should go to Jorge Chavez Airport, located at Avenue Elmer Faucett s/n, Callao. From this place, local and foreign tourists can start their journeys. It is advisable to use this means of transportation because it is comfortable, safe and quick. In addition, it will take approximately 1 hour to arrive in Cusco.

Nevertheless, if the local or foreign traveler is in any other region that is not Lima, he or she may go directly to Cusco from these places by land or air. It would be also ideal to travel by plane to get shortly to the Imperial City. It should be noted that there are other options such as the PeruRail Titicaca Train and the Belmond Andean Explorer (if coming from Puno), bus or private transportation service.

• Step #3: Velasco Astete Airport

From the airplane, you will be able to see the bright sky of Cusco and the houses surrounding the Velasco Astete airport, located at Velasco Astete s/n, Wanchaq, Cusco. The flight to the Imperial City takes approximately 1 hour from Lima.

From this airport, you will be able to take a taxi or a private transportation service to the hotel where you will be staying.

We recommend that the traveler rests in a hotel at least one night to acclimatize to Cusco height so he or she will be able to make the tour in best conditions.

• Step #4: Buy Machu Picchu entrance tickets

To enter to Machu Picchu, you can buy tickets at the Ministry of Culture authorized box offices, located at Calle Garcilazo SN – Museo Casa Garcilazo, Cusco. Tickets are also available at the Cultural Center in Machu Picchu Town (next to Plaza Central); it just requires showing IDs such as National Identity Card (DNI) for Peruvians and passports in the case of foreign people. Do not forget that set-out payments are in local currency (Soles) and cash.

You can also book and pay the entrance ticket online on this website www.machupicchu.gob.pe

• Step #5: Reach to Poroy Station (Cusco)

If you are in the city of Cusco, you should go to Poroy Station (Cusco) as a starting point to travel to the mystical Machu Picchu. There are two ways to reach this point, by taxi or private transportation service if you booked a tourist package. The trip will take about 20 minutes.

• Step #6: Train boarding from Poroy Station (Cusco)

It is recommendable to arrive at Poroy Station 30 minutes before departure of the train chosen to make the trip. At boarding, you should show the train ticket, ID (DNI for Peruvians) or passport (foreign people) to appropriately check in. You can show your boarding pass directly from the PeruRail eTicket application. The train journey to Machu Picchu is going to take around 3 hours and 30 minutes with a 10 minutes stop at Ollantaytambo Station where some travelers will embark to start their adventure to the Inca Citadel from this point

In PeruRail, we have are several options to travel by trains. Each of them will make you live a different and unique experience. Get to know the different train services we have for you and discover the variety of them.

• Paso #7: Arrival at Machu Picchu Station

After approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, you will be arriving at Machu Picchu Station, the last train stop, located in Machu Picchu Town. From this place, reaching the summit of the Inca Empire is just a few minutes away.

We invite you to learn more about the Machu Picchu Station.

• Step #8: Round trip bus tickets to Machu Picchu   

We suggest you buy round trip tickets so you can return on the bus to Machu Picchu Town with no problems.

To reach this place, you will have to walk for approximately 15 minutes; first, you should pass through the market, located outside Machu Picchu Station towards the bridge, then cross it over; underneath, you will see a ticket office, located at Av. Hermanos Ayar S/N, Machu Picchu Pueblo, where you should buy the tickets.

• Step #9: Bus up to Machu Picchu

After purchasing the tickets to Machu Picchu, you should wait a few minutes at the bus station, located right in front of a stall where bus tickets are sold. The ascent to the Inca citadel will take approximately 25 minutes by this means. But if the traveler does not want that option, he or she can get to the summit by trekking in two hours.

• Step #10: Arrival to Machu Picchu

Dream destination is finally reached; there you may get to know Machu Picchu in detail. Travelers have the option to get around the citadel by themselves or hire a tourist guide that will explain all history and construction of this architectonical jewel of Inca Empire in the very entrance to the citadel. When the tour around Ancient Sanctuary is over, do not forget to go to the same stop where the bus left you to return to Machu Picchu Town.

It is necessary to have cash and Peruvian currency money to avoid any problem.

It’s time to get to know the impressive walls of Machu Picchu, the wonder of Peru for the world! Buy your train tickets now!

Cusco has an ancient past that beats in its streets, squares and valleys. No one resists the path of its history and Incas engineering which dominated the stone as few cultures have done in the past. The best example of this is Machu Picchu citadel.

The citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the new seven wonders of the world in Cusco, Peru

This new wonder of the world, located at 2360 meters above sea level, dazzles those who visit it, with its beauty and mystery. For this reason, it is considered as one of the main tourist destinations in Peru and one of the most visited and recommended places in the world.

So, take your suitcase, follow these tips and start a magical journey that will captivate you from start to finish:

PERURAIL train bordering the Vilcanota river before arriving at Machu Picchu, Cusco

To avoid any mishap and fully enjoy this experience, you can purchase in advance your train tickets at www.perurail.com. In our website you will find different departure stations to go to Machu Picchu. You should locate which station corresponds to the train you are going to take.

In our booking you will find a variety of departure and return schedules according to the availability of our trains on the dates you have chosen. Click on “Continue” and make sure that the information of the itinerary chosen fit perfectly with what you have planned for the trip. Remember, it’s always better to have extra time. The magic of Machu Picchu will captivate you to stay a little longer.

Finally, everything will be ready for your trip when you have correctly filled your information and those of your adventure companions. Do not forget to put the email and contact number that you use more often, because by these means we will communicate with you to indicate all the details, so you can enjoy your trip with no problems.

Otherwise, if you prefer to buy your tickets in person, you can do it at our points of sale, located in Lima and Cusco. Here are our stores:

Larcomar, Miraflores. One of the points of sale for the train tickets to Machu Picchu

• Lima: Larcomar Shopping Center in Miraflores and Jorge Chávez International Airport.
• Cusco: Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport and in the Main Square.

If you want to know the schedules, addresses and telephones go to: https://www.perurail.com/find-us/

Cusco Town Center. A point of sale to buy the train tickets to Machu Picchu.

Remember that the journey is as magical as your destination. So, now you are ready to have an unforgettable experience aboard our PeruRail Vistadome and PeruRail Expedition trains!

To keep in mind: The citadel of Machu Picchu is located in the jungle eyebrow, you should come prepared with sunscreen, hat or cap, sunglasses and repellent.

Have a good trip, we’ll wait for you on board!

 The elegant observatory car

New train service to Machu Picchu

What’s new in this new train service? In the first place, it is made up of two elegant observatory cars and a panoramic view car. That is, if you used to travel aboard the PeruRail Vistadome train with stunning views thanks to its characteristic panoramic windows, now you can embrace nature even more thanks to its observatory car that gives you a wide-ranging view of the scenery and landscapes thanks to its large windows and the balcony from where you can watch the beauty of the route at its best.

 The new observatory cars of the PeruRail Vistadome Observatory train

The observatory car, in addition to having the full on-board sanitization system and generator set, is characterized mainly by its classic and elegant decor, which features wooden veneers, decorative masks on the walls, comfortable and refined armchairs, and cushions with the characteristic colors of this new train service.

Another highlight is that along the route passengers will be able to move freely between the panoramic car and the elegant observatory car to enjoy the experience on board, which includes music and dances that are given live during the trip in train to Machu Picchu.

Onboard Services

Do you Remember the mischievous Saqra? He is coming back to join you during your train journey to Machu Picchu! This little devil came straight from the festivities of Paucartambo to liven up your journey to the Inca citadel with his unique dance in honor of Virgen del Carmen. But this character does not come alone, because local musicians will also travel on board to delight us with the best and most harmonious melodies of the Peruvian Andes. Remember that the mix of sounds and rhythms of typical Andean instruments are part of the exclusive travel experience on board this new train service.

 Dances and music aboard the PeruRail Vistadome Observatory

Routes, Timetables and Rates

The new PeruRail Vistadome Observatory train service will depart daily directly from Wanchaq Station, located in Cusco, in time slot 83 at 05:10 hrs in Bimodal format (bus + train) towards the final destination at Machu Picchu station at 09:15 hrs. An early arrival will allow you to enjoy a full day in the Inca citadel, as you will be arriving at one of the best times to get to know the archaeological site in its entirety. You can return to Cusco on the same new train service boarding the 504 time slot at 16:21 hrs to arrive at Wanchaq station at 20:30 hrs. Finally, take advantage of the special launch rate starting at USD 62 or S/254.

Saqras in the observatory car

Now that you are familiar with this new and unique way to travel, don’t forget to purchase your tickets on this new train to Machu Picchu, follow the safety and health protocols when boarding and enjoy an exclusive journey full of amazing views. See you on board!

At PeruRail we are driven by our 4 fundamental pillars which are:

• Deliver an unforgettable experience.
• Guarantee the safety of our passengers and collaborators.
• Deliver a quality service.
• Variety of schedules and services for all types of travelers, from those who are looking for comfort at a low price to those who are looking for a more cultural service, for your trip to Machu Picchu.

PeruRail Vistadome Train

PeruRail Vistadome: An amazing panoramic trip that awakens your senses.

If what you are looking for is to be one with nature and enjoy a service linked to culture, the PeruRail Vistadome train provides a unique visual and cultural experience thanks to the beautiful panoramic view of the lands of the Inca Empire. It is an exclusive and different option to make your trip to the Inca Citadel Machu Picchu.

The PeruRail Vistadome service has comfortable and reclining seats, accompanied by background music prepared especially for your trip to Machu Picchu. In addition, it has explanatory audio of the most relevant places on the route to learn a little more about the Sacred Valley and the air conditioning system helps withstand with the temperatures of each season of the year.

To make your trip more pleasant and entertaining, the PeruRail Vistadome train features typical dances, a fashion show (with alpaca-based garments from the area only on the return trip) and snacks prepared with Andean ingredients on the return trips from the citadel. All this so that you can enjoy a culturally enriching experience on the way to the Citadel of Machu Picchu.

*The snacks described in the previous paragraph will be available once the COVID-19 virus emergency has passed.

Cultural Encounter, PeruRail Vistadome Train

If you are going to stay in the Sacred Valley of Cusco to admire its beauty and mysticism, you will have no problems traveling on the PeruRail Vistadome, as this train is the only one that has three departure stations (Poroy, Ollantaytambo and Urubamba) with a wide variety of schedules and frequencies that adjust to your travel itinerary.

The comfort, entertainment and experience provided by the PeruRail Vistadome service has allowed it to win the Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence award for five consecutive years between 2014 and 2020.

And you, what are you waiting for to take a trip to Machu Picchu in the PeruRail Vistadome?!

PeruRail Expedition: Explore the true adventure to Machu Picchu

If adventure is what moves you, the PeruRail Expedition train is the one for you. This fabulous train has an adventurous and at the same time comfortable environment, with large cars and an Inca design that combines with the landscape of the region and the Inca Culture.

This train full of Andean attitude not only has a sale of snacks and drinks on board, but also offers typical artisan products of the region, made with the excellent quality provided by the raw materials of the area.

The personality of the PeruRail Expedition train

This train operates all year, with various schedules that adjust to the needs of your trip to Machu Picchu passing through the Poroy, Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu Pueblo stations.

Like the PeruRail Vistadome, the PeruRail Expedition holds the Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence award for five consecutive years between 2015 and 2017.

Get on the PeruRail Expedition train and live the adventure of a trip to Machu Picchu!

 PeruRail Vistadome Observatory: Live a unique journey surrounded by spectacular views

We present our newest train service to Machu Picchu: the PeruRail Vistadome Observatory. The travel experience that you will live on board is not only unique and exclusive, but it will surround you with the magical landscapes thanks to its panoramic windows and its observatory car. Along the route, passengers will be able to move between the panoramic car and the elegant observatory car to enjoy a better experience aboard.

This new service will run every day of the week in bimodal format (bus + train) or regular (departing from Ollantaytambo). Our schedules will allow you to enjoy a full day in the Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu and even spend the night in Machu Picchu Pueblo.

Aboard this luxurious train, you will enjoy live shows, such as the Saqra de Paucartambo dances, music and a fashion show with baby alpaca garments (only on return trips).

PeruRail Titicaca: Traverse inspiring landscapes of the Peruvian Andes.

A luxury experience is what you will find on board the PeruRail Titicaca train, as it has the style and characteristic atmosphere of the Pullmans of the twenties.

The PeruRail Titicaca train experience begins with welcoming its passengers at the departure station, where local musicians will accompany them to board to the rhythm of Andean beats. Equipped with 2 Dining Cars and a Bar Car, passengers will be able to enjoy exquisite gourmet lunches prepared with the best Andean ingredients. Inside you can also enjoy the incredible music and the characteristic dances of the Peruvian highlands.

However, the show is not only inside the train, because you will have the possibility to see the majestic landscapes that this route offers you, cataloged among the most beautiful in the world. Finally, a brief stop is made at the La Raya Market, the highest point of the trip that is located at 4,360 m.a.s.l. between the mountains of Cusco and the Mountains.

Encounter with Andean culture on the PeruRail Titicaca Train

The PeruRail Titicaca service operates all year round (except for Tuesdays) between the cities of Puno and Cusco in a trip that lasts approximately ten and a half hours.

This luxury train, like the services already mentioned, has received the World Travel Awards in the category Best Luxury Train in South America during the years 2012 and 2013.

Take an impressive train trip aboard the PeruRail Titicaca!

The options are varied and each one has an incredible experience when touring the Inca lands. Whether you want to see the majestic Machu Picchu, Cusco with its various cultural monuments or the great Lake Titicaca, you can check the schedules of our trains, choose the one that best suits you and soak up Inca Culture with PeruRail.

Travel through Incaicas lands with PeruRail.

Until April 30, the Bimodal service will allow you to live your adventure in the most comfortable and safest way possible on the way to Machu Picchu, Puno, Lake Titicaca, among others, combining the tranquility of a trip by private Bus and Train.

In this season, the PeruRail Vistadome and PeruRail Expedition’s train services include a private bus that begins its journey at Wanchaq Station, located 5 minutes from downtown Cusco and ends at Ollantaytambo Station, place of the first transfer. At this point the train journey begins and will take you to Machu Picchu Pueblo Station, the last stop before starting the ascent to the Inca Citadel.

Remember that this service applies only to the frequencies that depart from the Wanchaq station in Cusco. In the mornings you will find the buses of frequencies 83 at 5:10 a.m., 33 at 5:50 a.m. and 203 at 7:50 a.m. from Wanchaq station to Ollantaytambo where you will take the PeruRail Vistadome or PeruRail Expedition trains to finish your journey to Machu Picchu Pueblo station at 09:15 a.m., 09:54 a.m. and 12:11 m., respectively. While in the afternoons you will find frequencies 34 at 15:20 p.m., 504 at 16:22 p.m. and 32 at 16:43 p.m. of the same trains from Machu Picchu Pueblo station to Ollantaytambo station to finally finish the Bus ride to the Wanchaq station located in the center of Cusco at 19:30 p.m., 20:30 p.m. and 20:55 p.m., respectively.

Learn more about the bimodal service for all PeruRail trains.

Bimodal PeruRail service transfer

We care about your health in times of pandemic!

As a transport company that lives with nature and that also cares about the well-being of our passengers in the context of a pandemic, our passengers will be able to make use of a virtual ticket. With this we seek to reduce the use of paper in order to contribute to the preservation of the planet’s forests and in addition to avoid close contact with personnel. In this way we take care of your health and our team.

In addition, this ticket gives our customers greater comfort, speed and ease when boarding the trains. We take care of users and we take care of the planet.

Digital Ticket PeruRail

If you have already decided to visit Machu Picchu and learn more about the Inca Culture, enjoy the bimodal service we have for you. Check the train schedules and choose the option that best suits you to start your journey through the ancestral lands to Machu Picchu.